Mike Tyson, faced with the odds in his upcoming return to the ring against Jake Paul, refused to predict a knockout round but made it clear he’s gunning for a stoppage victory.

The 58 year old boxing icon is stepping back into action after years away from professional fights, last facing Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition draw and Kevin McBride professionally, bowing out in defeat back in 2005.

Meanwhile, Paul has nailed victories in most of his 11 bouts, only losing to Tommy Fury. His opponents have mostly been ex-MMA fighters, the likes of Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, Anderson Silva, Nate Diaz, and recently Mike Perry – a stand-in for Tyson in their scrapped match due to Tyson’s inflamed ulcer.

Now healed and determined, Tyson is all set for his clash with Paul. When pressed by Fox 4 Dallas on the anticipated KO moment, Tyson shared: “I’m not a round guy, but I’m just going in there with bad intentions and my intention is to hurt this young man.”

Tyson stated: “Not long, as soon as I catch him, because he’s going to run like a thief. I don’t see how he’s going to make it an exciting fight by running all day. He’s supposed to be the young guy, he’s supposed to walk right through me.

“I’m an old man but he’s going to run all night. He should try it (meet me in the centre of the ring); he’s a younger man. he should be able to take punches from an old and withering man like me.”

Mike Tyson thinks Jake Paul is going to 'run like a thief' in their fight

Mike Tyson thinks Jake Paul is going to ‘run like a thief’ in their fight ( 

Image:

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

Tyson also expressed his doubts about Paul’s commitment to the fight, despite Paul’s social media posts showcasing his training in Puerto Rico. “I can’t wait for this evening to happen. I just don’t think he’s taking it seriously,” Tyson added.

“I think he believes he’s the young guy and I’m the quasi-retirement child, they may think I’m an easy touch. “[The fans] won’t believe the spectacle that’s going to happen, it’ll be something they’ve never experienced before as far as pain is concerned.”

Tyson has been actively training, as seen in his recent social media posts, including a sparring session where he knocked down his partner.”